Snapdragon spurs mobile convergence

Qualcomm's Snapdragon next-generation family of mobile processors will power Microsoft's first generation of upcoming Windows 8-based PCs, reports Market Watch.

In addition, Qualcomm's Gobi mobile Internet connectivity solutions will provide Windows 8-based PCs with wireless 3G/4G connectivity.

Qualcomm's Snapdragon processors deliver dual-band WiFi, Bluetooth and FM radio connectivity through Qualcomm Atheros' WCN3660 combo chip, according to The Sacramento Bee.

The WCN3660 is an integrated solution optimised to work with a broad range of mobile operating systems, and will be the first in a series of 802.11n wireless LAN solutions to fully support Windows 8.

Qualcomm CEO Paul Jacobs says mobile is now the dominant computing platform, reveals Thinq.

Jacobs believes mobile convergence will become more fundamental in developing nations. "Fogur out of five mobile connections are in emerging markets, and in many cases, it will be the only computing device that they have."

He outlines a strategy to drive down the cost through integration, moving from a modem producer into GPS, graphics, central processing, and other functions, in order to provide a one-stop-shop system-on-chip design for its customers - to the point where a true smartphone can be bought for around $50.